Is there a way to fix a crack in a limestone fireplace?

Jun 8 2008

Q There's a crack on my polished limestone fireplace, which is only a couple of months old. The fireplace seems to have settled at one end, which has caused it to crack in the middle. Is there any filler that can be used to fix this?

A No. Once polished limestone cracks it's pretty much done. If you want to make the best of it instead of replacing it, you could try a two-part filler, which will disguise the dark crack to a point but it will still be noticeable. Try to contact the installers to find out why it has settled at one end as it might be an installation problem.

Q We have just had our bathroom wall tiled with mirrored tiles. We have a bathroom cabinet that has to go on the same wall. Is this a job for the experts rather than DIY? My hubby is a bit nervous about trying it himself.

A As long as the tiles have been fitted to the wall with an even bed of adhesive so they are completely supported with no hollow areas behind, it should be no problem. Then simply use a glass drill bit. The bit has an extremely hard tungsten carbide tip which easily cuts through the glass. Set your drill to a low speed and apply light pressure as you drill.

Wet the hole as you go so the drill and hole are lubricated.

Q Our conservatory is like an oven when the sun shines. Is there any way of reducing the heat? Blinds are not an option.

A A conservatory acts just like a greenhouse. The solution to your problem is to fit solar inserts into the roof. It is not a difficult job and is something you could do yourself. Contact Polycool Ltd, (Tel: 01789 766880). They supply solar inserts that will greatly reduce the build up of heat by reflecting the sun's rays.

Q What are the thinnest floor tiles available? I want to cover about eight square metres. Due to tiling over existing tiles, it would be an advantage to use as thin a tile as possible as I don't want a step at the kitchen door.

A Plan for around 5-6mm in thickness as they don't come any thinner. Use UniBond Tile on Tiles adhesive. However you will still have a step at the door unless you lift the old tiles.